Today, franchising remains at the heart of our business. It is built on a simple principle: placing responsibility for the day-to-day operation of our restaurants in the hands of dedicated business owners who are passionate about leading people, serving customers, and growing their businesses.
When you become a McDonald’s franchisee, you are stepping into a proven business model backed by one of the world’s most recognised brands. Franchisees benefit from established operating systems, continuous innovation, comprehensive marketing support, and a robust supply chain network that works with more than 29,000 farmers across the UK and Ireland.
At McDonald’s, we’re looking for ambitious individuals with strong leadership, commercial awareness, and a people-first mindset. Previous foodservice experience is not essential. What matters most is the ability to lead teams, drive performance, and fully commit to the business. Franchisees are expected to dedicate themselves exclusively to operating their McDonald’s business and are supported throughout their journey by our extensive network of Franchisee Consultants and business specialists.
Applicants who successfully progress through our selection process undertake a comprehensive full-time training programme, typically lasting between six and nine months, depending on experience. This immersive programme equips future franchisees with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to operate a successful McDonald’s business.
With opportunities available across the UK and Ireland, we are particularly focused on attracting talented entrepreneurs who are open to operating restaurants in locations outside London, where significant growth and development opportunities continue to emerge. Many of our franchisees have expanded from operating a single restaurant to managing multiple locations, employing hundreds of people and creating a lasting impact within their communities.
The typical investment for a McDonald’s franchise starts from £350,000 in unencumbered funds, providing access to a fully operational restaurant and the support, systems, trademarks, and expertise that have helped generations of franchisees succeed.
As McDonald’s continues to evolve and innovate, our franchisees remain central to shaping the customer experience and driving future growth. Our partnership approach has underpinned four decades of franchising success in the UK, proving that with McDonald’s, you are truly in business for yourself, but not by yourself.